8-Day / 7-Night Gentle

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Olhão.

Today starts with a lovely boat ride (30-45 min) through the fascinating and ever-changing Ria Formosa Lagoon where you can view wading birds and mussel banks. On the relaxed, traffic-free island explore the little village of Farol below its lighthouse. From there, take off your shoes to follow the gorgeous beach for a few kilometres – and maybe jump into the waves for a little swim. Then turn inland and follow boardwalks to the charming small fishing village of Culatra where you can stop for refreshments before taking the boat back to Olhão through a lagoon that has now changed with the tide.

The Ludo Nature Trail is a great spot to introduce visitors to the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park – a breathtaking lagoon that extends nearly 60 km along the Eastern Algarve coastline. This easy, short, and accessible trail offers a closer look at the rich biodiversity of the park, home to an abundance of birdlife, including flamingos, spoonbills, and many other species. The surrounding saltpans, a defining feature of the landscape, provide the perfect habitat for viewing these incredible creatures. We have also included an option to visit one of the beautiful nearby beaches. Transfers at the start and end of the hike.

After a short transfer, this lovely walk takes you from the heart of the Algarve’s ‘Barrocal’ region, between the coast and the mountains. Hiking back to the coast at Tavira it offers a glimpse of the charming inland countryside. Wander along dark red gravel tracks that wind through rolling hills, past traditional ceramic workshops, endless orange & lemon groves, and quaint hamlets where friendly locals welcome you. This route is rich in rustic character and provides a striking contrast to our other walks around Tavira that stay close to the coast.

After a short transfer to Pedras d’el Rei, your journey begins with a visit to one of Portugal’s oldest trees. From there, a leisurely walk takes you through charming orchards, along small farms and past traditional houses nestled just inland from the coast. Reaching an old watchtower, you return to the shoreline, where stunning views of the Ria Formosa Lagoon unfold before you. As you continue, you’ll pass oyster beds before taking a brief inland detour, leading you to saltpans teeming with birdlife, including spoonbills and flamingos. Finally, you arrive at the traditional fishing town of Fuseta with many great places to eat or enjoy a drink, a perfect place to end this scenic walk. Return to Tavira by train.

A varied and rewarding coastal loop that blends beach, history, culture and wildlife. You start with a short ferry ride on the Gilão River from Tavira town to Ilha de Tavira, a barrier island known for its golden sands. From the ferry landing, follow the wide, peaceful beach westward, with the Atlantic stretching endlessly beside you. Pass the iconic Anchor Cemetery at Praia do Barril before you can take a narrow-gauge railway back across the lagoon to the mainland from where you walk along the lagoon of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Stop at the charming fishing village of Santa Luzia, famous for its octopus catch, and then follow quiet tracks and paths through saltpans and wetlands. Keep an eye out for flamingos and other birdlife as you make your way back to Tavira.

There are frequent bus and train connections from Taviro to Faro, and then onwards to Faro Airport. Alternatively, it is possible to get a taxi transfer from Tavira direct to Faro Airport. Please consult with your host or the reception staff at your accommodation for further information for onward travel.